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Refugees can’t be left in limbo

Sinn Féin MLA Caitríona Ruane has
called on EU member countries to ensure that refugees fleeing war, persecution
and famine are not left in limbo.

Speaking at a debate in the Assembly
Ms. Ruane said,

“Our hearts are broken by the daily
scenes of drowned refugees on Europe’s beaches or the lines of people
attempting to cross borders to safety.

"The Mediterranean Sea has
turned into a floating cemetery with 30,000 men, women and little boys and
girls drowning in a desperate attempt to flee wars and persecution.

“The people of Ireland, Britain and
other European countries have shown the way by offering help and assistance and
their Governments need to match that groundswell of opinion with practical
measures.

“It is important that we get a
unified strategy from all member states to allow humanitarian aid to be
delivered to these people.

"These refugees are not coming
to Europe out of choice but out of terror and fear and would rather return
home.

"Europe has a responsibility to
do more to help these people as the actions of European governments did much to
trigger the wars and conflicts currently raging across the Middle East and
beyond.” ENDS/CRÍOCH